Over 8 million take the ‘holy dip’ on day 1 of Kumbh

Over 8 milliondevotees took the ‘holy dip’ in the Ganga in Allahabad on Monday, January 14, marking the beginning of the 55-day Maha Kumbh mela.

The festival takes place over roughly two months and attracts people from across the world. From holy men and devotees seeking spiritual purification, to local and international tourists and celebrities seeking a slice of Incredible India . In the past, the festival has seen the likes of Richard Gere and filmmaker David Lynch.

The story behind the Kumbh Hindu mythology says there was once an epic battle between the gods and the demons. During this cosmic jostle, four precious drops of Amrit (the nectar of immortality) fell on Allahabad, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik.

These places became the locations for the Kumbh Mela which is held every three years, alternating between these four cities.

Largest human congregation? According to thisEconomic Times report, this year’s festival is expected to draw 100 million devotees over the next 55 days. Of these, 20 million are expected to arrive on 15 February, the most auspicious day.